Did Passenger Traffic at Incheon Airport Reach a Record High in 2025?
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Synopsis
Passenger traffic at Incheon International Airport reached unprecedented heights in 2025, exceeding 74 million. This surge was propelled by increased flights to Japan and China, influenced by holiday factors and a temporary visa waiver from China. Discover the impact of these developments on the airport's operations and regional travel trends.
Key Takeaways
- Record passenger traffic at Incheon Airport exceeded 74 million in 2025.
- The increase was largely due to flights to Japan and China.
- Travel demand surged during extended holiday seasons.
- Southeast Asia saw a decline in its share of passenger traffic.
- Freight volumes rose slightly, indicating a robust logistics operation.
Seoul, Jan 25 (NationPress) Passenger traffic at Incheon International Airport soared past 74 million in 2025, primarily fueled by a surge in flights connecting to Japan and China, as reported by the airport's operator on Sunday.
A total of 74.07 million travelers passed through South Korea's key airport last year, setting a new record since its inception in 2001, according to Incheon International Airport Corp. (IIAC), as detailed by Yonhap news agency.
This figure represents a 4.1 percent increase from 71.15 million passengers the previous year.
“Travel interest in Northeast Asian nations notably surged, spurred by an extended Lunar New Year and Chuseok holidays, a temporary visa waiver from China, and the depreciation of the won, which led to increased travel to alternative destinations such as Japan and China,” the IIAC noted.
In terms of international travel, Southeast Asia made up 26.7 percent of traffic last year, followed closely by Japan at 25.1 percent and China at 16.7 percent, with the remainder traveling to other areas.
The percentage of travelers heading to Southeast Asia fell from 29.6 percent the previous year due to heightened safety fears following the tragic death of a South Korean student in Cambodia last August linked to an alleged employment scam.
Additionally, total freight volumes saw a 0.3 percent rise year-on-year, reaching 2.95 million tons, aided by increased belly cargo that utilizes unused space on passenger flights for transporting goods.
The IIAC anticipates passenger numbers for the current year to increase by 2 to 6 percent year-on-year, projecting between 75.54 million and 78.55 million travelers.
In a related note, the remains of a South Korean university student, who was reportedly tortured to death by a criminal group in Cambodia, were returned home on Tuesday, 74 days after his body was discovered in the Southeast Asian nation.
A Korean Air flight carrying the cremated remains of the student, surnamed Park, landed at Incheon International Airport, just a day after South Korean and Cambodian officials performed a joint autopsy on his remains in Phnom Penh.
Point of View
This surge in passenger traffic underscores a significant rebound in travel demand post-pandemic, reflecting optimism and resilience in the tourism sector. It also highlights the importance of international relations and economic factors in shaping travel patterns, particularly in the context of regional dynamics.
NationPress
25/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the passenger traffic at Incheon Airport in 2025?
In 2025, Incheon International Airport recorded over 74 million passengers.
What factors contributed to the increase in passenger traffic?
The increase was driven by more flights to Japan and China, extended holiday periods, and economic factors such as the weakness of the won.
How did Southeast Asia fare in terms of passenger traffic?
Southeast Asia accounted for 26.7 percent of the total passenger traffic at Incheon Airport in 2025.
What are the projections for passenger traffic in 2026?
The IIAC expects passenger traffic to grow by 2 to 6 percent in 2026, estimating between 75.54 million and 78.55 million travelers.
What other news is related to the airport?
The remains of a South Korean student, allegedly tortured in Cambodia, were returned to Incheon Airport around the same time.
